Dayton’s Bonding Bill Focuses On Job Creation

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ST. PAUL (WCCO/AP) – Gov. Mark Dayton focused on jobs as he unveiled the details of his bonding proposal for the 2012 legislative session, which included issuing $775 million in bonds for construction projects.

“This bill is our chance to put thousands of Minnesotans back to work by investing in important projects throughout our state,” said Dayton.

The proposal would include $30 million for the construction and repair of bridges, as well as $25 million for the construction of a new light-rail corridor connecting Eden Prairie to the Central Corridor line currently being built between the downtown areas of Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Among the other proposals to spur job growth include $13.5 million for the expansion of the Hormel Institute, $35 million to expand the Rochester Mayo Civic Center, and another $10 million to create a civic center in St. Cloud.

The Democratic governor’s administration estimates the bill would create up to 21,700 new jobs.

Much of the talk at the State Capitol lately has been over various proposals to build a new stadium for the Minnesota Vikings football team. Dayton’s proposal included $27 million for the construction of a new stadium — but not for the Vikings. The money would be allocated to build a new regional ballpark in St. Paul.

Dayton also recommended $78 million to go to the University of Minnesota system, and another $63.5 to Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.

“I hope that the legislature will join me in growing Minnesota’s economy now by passing a bonding bill in the first month of the session. Doing so will enable many of the projects, and their jobs, to become realities this year,” said Dayton.

House and Senate Republican leaders said bonds should be used for core infrastructure needs only, such as road construction.